According to running back LaDainian Tomlinson, who played for New
York in 2010 and 2011, coach Rex Ryan used some interesting
motivational techniques to get his team pumped up to play the
Pats.

He once even promised to punch Bill Belichick in the face,
Tomlinson told NFL Network this morning (via
PFT):

"Rex got in front of us, he said, 'I'm going to set the
tempo today, guys,' he said, 'I'm going to set the tempo. When I
meet Bill Belichick in the center of the field, I'm going to
start it off and punch him in the face.'"

It didn't happen, obviously.

The Jets were 2-3 against New England during Tomlinson's tenure,
including a signature 28-21 win in the playoffs.

In recent years, New England has snuffed out the rivalry
entirely. They've won four straight, the most recent of which was
the 49-19 "Butt Fumble" game on Thanksgiving night last year.

The two teams play Thursday in Foxboro. They're both 1-0 on the
young season.